Kópavogur Considers Ban On Outdoor Smoking

Kópavogur City Council Member Ómar Stefánsson has sought an investigation into the possibility of banning smoking outside of all public institutions in the municipality, a move that he believes will support the rights of non-smokers. Ómar’s proposal has two objectives: first, to explore the possibility of banning smoking outside of libraries, health centres, and government agencies; and, second, to determine the possibility of banning smoking entirely throughout the municipality of Kópavogur, RÚV reports. The municipality-wide ban would not prohibit smokers from lighting up in their own homes, gardens or private vehicles, but the ban would stand at all outdoor public events, such as Icelandic National Day celebrations on 17 June. As a member of the Progressive Party, Ómar is carrying on the party’s anti-smoking stance, as it was the Progressives who first proposed banning smoking in bars and restaurants throughout Iceland, which took effect in 2007.Related:Fewer Icelanders SmokingPercentage of Icelandic Smokers DecliningFurther Restrictions on Tobacco ProposedUp In The Air